Good Advice
Dog-friendly toys are a great way to keep your dog entertained and content. Play is more than just fun – it helps dogs learn, unwind and explore the world around them.
Chewing is also an essential part of a dog’s daily routine. It helps relieve stress, supports good dental hygiene and satisfies a natural instinct. Most dogs love to chew, so it’s important to give them something safe and suitable. If not, they’ll often find their own alternative – and it might not be your first choice.
What can I give my dog to chew?
So, what are good things to chew? Some people might ask, ‘What’s wrong with a stick? Dogs have been chewing sticks for centuries!’ and it’s true – most dogs like chasing, retrieving, and chewing a stick. But sadly, as any vet will tell you, sticks can be really dangerous for your dog. A dog won’t stop and think ‘Hmmm, I really should balance this enormous stick carefully in my mouth before I charge off after that pesky squirrel…’ and if one end of that stick catches on the ground or in a gatepost, it can cause considerable damage to your dog’s mouth. Sticks can also have sharp edges and may splinter and cut into your dog’s soft mouth. Worse still, if any splinters are swallowed down, they may cause life-threatening injuries to your dog’s insides.
So, with that in mind, we need to make sure we find dog friendly toys to occupy and entertain our four-legged friends that are ‘safer than sticks’!
Firstly, here’s a quick check list which you might find helpful to determine whether the toy truly is dog-friendly. Ask yourself if the toy is:
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Designed specifically for dogs?
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The right size for your dog?
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Damaged or has it got any sharp edges?
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Non-toxic or stuffed or filled with anything toxic?
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Designed to suit the play activity?
Fortunately, dog friendly toys are plentiful and come in all shapes and sizes, with squeaks and without, plastic and fabric… the choice is huge. They all serve different purposes but it’s essential that we make absolutely sure each toy is actually designed for a dog and thus, that it’s safe for your dog. Even a small dog has a powerful bite and children’s toys just won’t withstand the pressure.
Toys for accompanied play
Dogs love to chase, catch and carry things, especially when out on a walk. The right toy can turn a simple outing into something fun, enriching and safe for both of you.
Balls are a popular choice, but it’s important to choose the right type and size. If a ball is too small, your dog could swallow it. If it’s too big, they may not be able to carry it and could quickly lose interest. Look for one that fits comfortably in their mouth without posing a risk.
Tennis balls are often used, especially for medium and large dogs. But we’ll be honest, we’re not fans of standard tennis balls at Dogs for Good. They can become slippery, which increases the chance of them getting caught in the throat. This can be very serious. Thankfully, safer versions are now available in a range of sizes for different breeds.
A few tips to keep ball play safe:
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Keep a few spares handy so you can replace a ball as soon as it starts to break down
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Store toys out of reach when not in use
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Never leave your dog unattended with a ball, especially if they like to chew
Some balls come with added features like ropes for easier handling, or built-in air holes that make them safer if they’re carried for long periods. Firmer rubber balls like ‘Chuck-It’ are a great option. They are durable, tend to float and bounce in a way many dogs find irresistible.
‘Jolly’ balls are slightly misshapen and bounce in unpredictable directions, which can be great fun for dogs who enjoy a bit of a challenge.
When throwing, aim to send the ball away from your dog rather than towards them. This reduces the risk of them leaping upwards and landing awkwardly. Keeping throws lower and more direct helps avoid injury while still encouraging play.
Avoid hard, rigid balls. These can shatter or cause damage to your dog’s teeth, especially if caught at speed.
If balls aren’t your dog’s thing, there are other interactive toys to try:
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Dog-safe frisbees with soft edges that don’t crack or splinter
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Rubber or plastic throw sticks as a chew-resistant alternative
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Tug ropes and rubber tugs for shared play and chewing
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Flirt poles, which are like oversized cat toys and great for dogs who love to chase
The best toys are the ones that keep your dog safe, active and happy, while helping to strengthen the bond you share.
Toys for solitary play
When dogs are left alone with a toy, many will instinctively chew it until it starts to fall apart. That’s why it’s important to check toys regularly and make sure they’re still safe to use.
Keep an eye out for any loose parts or missing chunks that your dog could accidentally swallow or inhale. This is especially important if you’re giving them a toy to enjoy on their own. A quick check now and then can help keep playtime both fun and safe.
Interactive dog-friendly toys
Just like us, dogs need mental stimulation and a bit of variety in their day. Interactive toys are a great way to provide enrichment, especially when they involve food rewards. These toys turn play into a fun challenge, helping your dog stay engaged and focused.
There are lots of options available from different suppliers, including:
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Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys, which encourage problem-solving
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Resilient rubber chew toys, perfect for dogs who love to gnaw
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Snuffle mats, made from knotted fabric, where you can hide food or treats between the strands
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Licky mats, with a textured surface designed for spreading paste or soft food across. These are great for calming dogs down and keeping them focused for longer
Whether it’s a quick activity to break up the day or part of your regular routine, interactive toys can make life more fun for your dog – and give you a few peaceful minutes too.
Kongs
Kongs are also properly designed for all kinds of dogs and are universally recognised as being safe, durable and fit for purpose. They can be stuffed with a food reward such as kibble, paste, or frozen yoghurt and can keep a dog focused and occupied for a long time. They come in a wide variety shapes and sizes to cater for every size of dog and also offer different levels of resilience to allow for the variety of power different dogs can exercise during chewing. Some bounce like a rugby ball, while others topple or run along the ground which means your dog will have to work to get the reward.
Dog-friendly soft toys
Many dogs love having their own soft, cuddly toy. Some carry them around for months without causing any damage, while others head straight for the squeaker and don’t stop until it’s out, leaving a trail of stuffing across the floor.
If your dog has soft toys, it’s important to keep an eye on them, especially if they’re crated or left on their own. Not all soft toys are safe, and some can quickly become a hazard if torn or chewed.
Choose toys that are:
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Free from buttons, plastic eyes and zips
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Made from puncture-resistant materials
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Easy to wash and quick to dry
Soft toys can start to smell over time, so wash them regularly and make sure they’re completely dry before giving them back. As with any toy, check often to make sure it’s still safe. If it’s damaged, it’s time to replace it.
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